The Colorado Rapids have traded Pablo Mastroeni to the Los Angeles Galaxy for a second-round pick in the 2014 MLS Superdraft and an international slot that extends through 2014.

The Rapids announced the decision Monday morning, putting an end to the midfielder’s 12 year stay at the Colorado club. Mastroeni will now head west to play with the Galaxy where he will be reunited with former U.S. Men’s National Team coach, Bruce Arena.

“It will be difficult to leave the Rapids after growing so close to the club and the fans in Colorado,” Mastroeni said in a statement. “I want to thank all the teammates, coaches, and staff I worked with over the years, as well as Stan Kroenke for the chance to play at such a beautiful stadium like Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.

“My sincere gratitude goes especially to all the fans, who have given so much to me and the team. Though I am excited for a new challenge, Colorado and the Rapids will always hold a special place in my heart.”

With the trade the Rapids say goodbye to their club captain who led them to the 2010 MLS Cup. He departs the Rocky Mountains as holder of the Rapids record for games played (225) and minutes played (18,669), scoring five goals and notching 16 assists during that time.

Despite his consistency and longevity, Mastroeni has had a difficult time with injuries of late, starring in only two MLS games during the 2010-11 season and seven league matches during the current term.

“While it is sad to see Pablo leave the Rapids, we are grateful for everything he gave to the club and our fans,” Rapids president said Tim Hinchey in a statement released by the club. “For all his achievements, including leading the team to the 2010 MLS Cup, he is and forever will be a Colorado Rapids legend. We look forward to seeing his name and number in our Gallery of Honor someday soon.”

While few will doubt Mastroeni’s contributions to both MLS and the USMNT, acquiring the 36 year old during the twilight of his career is an interesting move for the Galaxy. He’s unlikely to start for Arena’s squad but Mastroeni’s veteran leadership and defensive bite will provide a nice option to insert in the closing stages of close matches.

It’s also worth noting that the Galaxy will also receive Hammarby IF midfielder Baggio Husidic in the deal. The 26 year old Husidic is no stranger to Major League Soccer, having played 50 matches with the Chicago Fire between 2009-11, scoring six goals during the term. Since 2012 the Bosnian-American has played with the Swedish outfit, where he’s made 35 appearances and scored one goal.

Interestingly, Hammarby is managed by former Galaxy player and assistant Gregg Berhalter. Adding even more to the intrigue is that Hammarby is owned by AEG, the same company that owns the Galaxy. In other words, don’t be surprised if this deal is more about the aquisition of Husidic than Mastroeni.

One way or another, the Galaxy have found themselves decent cover in the midfield.